At the ceremony on the occasion of the International Day of the Disappeared and the Day of Remembrance for the Missing in the Homeland War, held in Daruvar, Prime Minister Andrej Plenković reflected on the results of the government's years of work in searching for persons missing during the Homeland War. The Government of the Republic of Croatia, despite numerous challenges, including lack of information and political obstacles, has achieved significant progress in this complex and emotionally sensitive issue.

Significant results despite challenges
Prime Minister Plenković highlighted in his speech that over the past years, 396 field investigations have been conducted at various locations across Croatia. These investigations covered almost a million square meters, during which search and identification services managed to find and exhume the remains of at least 190 individuals. Previous investigations have resulted in the identification of a total of 268 remains, representing a significant advancement in illuminating the fates of missing persons.

Systematic dedication and political will
The Prime Minister emphasized that the results were achieved thanks to the dedicated work of Deputy Prime Minister Tomo Medved and his team. This team, in collaboration with other relevant institutions, faces challenges every day but does not give up the effort to find and identify missing persons. The Prime Minister specifically noted that no meeting with representatives from Serbia or international diplomats has passed without mentioning this issue, ensuring continuous international support.

Legal framework and future plans
The Government of the Republic of Croatia has, during its term, adopted the Law on Persons Missing in the Homeland War, providing a solid legal framework for continuing search and identification efforts. Additionally, Plenković reminded of the importance of veterans' centers, announcing the construction of five new centers across the country, which will provide additional support to the families of the missing and Croatian veterans. This infrastructure represents a crucial segment in ensuring dignified care for those who have given the most for Croatia.

Statistics and broader context
According to the Ministry of the Interior, over the past 23 years, more than 24,000 missing persons have been reported in Croatia. Although many of them have been found later, there are still a large number of cases waiting for resolution. On the publicly accessible missing persons register, which is regularly updated, 94 new profiles of missing persons have been added in the last 12 months. These figures clearly show that the problem of missing persons is still very present and requires further attention and engagement.

Support for organizations and social responsibility
Plenković also expressed gratitude to numerous organizations actively dealing with this issue, emphasizing that their work deserves every possible support. The government is determined to continue cooperation with the civil sector and provide all necessary resources to ensure this complex and emotionally demanding process can continue. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of involving the entire society in this process, as each case of a missing person represents a painful story that requires justice and truth.

International cooperation as a key to success
In addition to domestic efforts, the government actively cooperates with international organizations and states to ensure that every lead is thoroughly investigated. Plenković emphasized that international cooperation is crucial in resolving cross-border cases of missing persons and that Croatia is recognized as a reliable partner in these efforts. Through various initiatives and projects, Croatia aims to contribute to global efforts in addressing the issue of missing persons, including cooperation with the European Union and other international bodies.

Significance and future
In conclusion, Prime Minister Plenković emphasized that the issue of missing persons in the Homeland War is of exceptional importance for Croatia and that the government will continue to make every necessary effort to ensure that every family receives answers about the fate of their loved ones. This process, although slow and challenging, represents a moral and political obligation to all those who have given the most for their homeland. Croatia will, he concluded, remain committed to this goal until every case of a missing person is resolved.

The government will also continue to strengthen capacities for search and identification, including modernizing technological resources, to ensure the fastest and most effective resolution of remaining cases. This process will be supported both by domestic institutions and through cooperation with international partners, ensuring a comprehensive approach to this important issue.